Tutu Hot to Stop ***Updated with Video & Photo Slideshow!

Cantaria, the gay men’s chorus of Asheville, performs a really gay patriotic number at today’s commemoration of the 1969 Stonewall Riots at Pack Square Park. Video by Michael Muller

Slideshow of the rally and march through downtown. Photos by Michael Muller

The 1969 Stonewall riots were something of a defining moment for a burgeoning gay rights movement. After police raided The Stonewall Inn in Greenwich Village (which had a marginalized and openly gay clientele), patrons fought back. Riots erupted. And the experience led to organizing of the gay community, increase activism and the first gay rights marches one year later.

To commemorate and celebrate, there’s a series of events downtown today. First up, speakers and bands at the new Pack Square Park, followed by a march.